It looks like St. Charles Parish will be well represented in the upcoming session of the state legislature. Dem. Sen. Joel Chaisson II apparently will serve as Senate president, having secured the backing of many Democratic and Republican senators and also the endorsement of Rep. Gov. Elect-Bobby Jindal.
In a state legislature known for its lack of partisanship, Chaisson is one of the least partisan of all. He should be able to serve all of the Senators from his podium very well.
Louisiana needs to change the way it conducts its government. Chaisson and our new governor seem to agree that a change in our ethics laws could begin that process. By redefining the way state officials serve Louisiana through legislation and practice, we can put our government way ahead in serving its people.
Some have criticized Jindal for endorsing Chaisson as Senate president, claiming that representatives of one branch of government should not use their power to influence another branch. But Jindal’s endorsement did not come forth as an exercise of power. It came after Chaisson’s choice as president was already pretty well established by the senators. The endorsement was more an expression of acceptance of that selection by the Senate and establishment of cooperation with that legislative body.
And, of course, just because the president represents St. Charles does not mean he should favor our parish above others in his service as president. And we don’t think Chaisson will.
He should make a good president of the Senate, serving all of the people of our state, and we look forward to it as a major advancement in the way we govern.
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